Is God inherently self-centered? Definition of the Question Is the One who created and sustains all things fundamentally focused only on Himself? This question arises from the human tendency to interpret “self-centeredness” in a negative way—usually meaning selfishness, pride, or an unhealthy fixation on one’s own interests. When applied to the divine, some wonder whether God is excessively concerned with His own glory to the point of excluding the good of others. Clarifying the Term “Self-Centered” In everyday usage, calling someone self-centered implies an inflated ego that disregards other persons’ value. Such an outlook contradicts the qualities of humility, care, and love. In Scripture, however, the consistent witness is that God’s character is infinitely pure and benevolent (Psalm 25:8–9). The question thus must distinguish between arrogant self-interest and a proper recognition of God’s supreme worthiness. The difference is that human self-centeredness involves unmerited self-exaltation. In contrast, God’s centrality is merited because He alone is Creator and Sustainer (Revelation 4:11). As the source of all life, He rightly deserves the honor He proclaims for Himself, yet He demonstrates benevolence toward His creation (Acts 17:24–25). Biblical Portrait of God’s Nature Holiness and Righteousness From the earliest pages of Scripture, God is portrayed as absolutely holy (Leviticus 19:2). Holiness signifies moral perfection and complete separation from sin. Such a being remains utterly distinct from creation in righteousness, incapable of malice or wrongdoing (Psalm 92:15). This moral purity undergirds every divine action, preventing God from being self-centered in a selfish, sinful sense. Love and Compassion Scripture likewise depicts God as the epitome of love (1 John 4:8). This love takes a sacrificial form, culminating in the giving of His Son for humanity. John 3:16 testifies, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son...” In bestowing this gift, He shows profoundly self-giving love, which counters any notion of mere egotism. God’s Desire for His Own Glory Why God Seeks His Own Honor The Bible consistently teaches that God seeks His own glory (Isaiah 48:9–11). This glorification is not akin to human pride. Instead, it is an affirmation of ultimate truth: God alone is worthy of praise because from Him originates all that exists (Romans 11:36). If God did not uphold His own glory, He would be affirming a falsehood—namely, that something else could be equally or more worthy than the Creator. Benefit to Creation When humans glorify God, they align themselves with reality. They benefit from drawing near to the fountain of life, wisdom, and goodness (James 1:17). The call to “worship Him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24) is for believers’ transformation and joy. Just as the sun’s central position in our solar system is essential for sustaining life, so God’s centrality is essential for spiritual and moral flourishing. God’s Actions on Behalf of Humanity Redemption Through Christ Rather than being indifferent, God entered the human narrative, culminating in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. 1 Corinthians 15:3–4 declares that Christ died for sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day—all in accordance with the Scriptures. That sacrificial plan underscores God’s initiative in rescuing humanity from sin. Such a redemptive design is the opposite of selfishness; it exemplifies purposeful self-giving. Ongoing Provision and Care Scripture also presents God as the One who continues to sustain each person breath by breath (Job 12:10). He does not simply command honor while disregarding creation; He clothes the lilies of the field, feeds the birds of the air (Matthew 6:26–29), and calls human beings to partake in an eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:4). Such provisions, both materially and spiritually, reveal a God invested in His creation’s well-being. Distinguishing Divine Glory from Human Pride Consistency with Perfect Character Human pride springs from sinfulness and limitations. We do not merit unconditional praise. By contrast, God’s self-glorification emerges from His faultless, eternal, and infinite nature. The holiness and love that animate Him guarantee that this is not a conceited or harmful focus. Instead, it upholds truth, justice, and compassion. Evidence from Biblical Manuscripts Centuries of manuscript transmission have preserved consistent portrayals of God’s attributes. Ancient fragments found at Qumran (Dead Sea Scrolls) meticulously match later copies of books like Isaiah, affirming the uniform message of God’s holiness and loving rule (cf. Isaiah 43:11–13). This reliability of transmission underlines that biblical depictions of God’s desire for glory have remained integral and unwavering, pointing to continuity rather than editorial manipulation or human invention. Philosophical and Behavioral Considerations Ontological Necessity If God is by definition the greatest conceivable being—maximally perfect in every attribute—it follows logically that He is the central reality in the universe. Exalting one’s perfections is improper for finite creatures driven by ego. Yet for the divine, it is a matter of truth, preserving the distinction between the dependent creation and the self-sufficient Creator. The Social Dimension Humans are wired for relationship, and part of spiritual well-being flows from recognizing the rightful place of God in one’s life. Behavioral studies often indicate that humility and purpose are key factors in mental health. A recognition of a higher authority fosters humility rather than self-obsession. Hence, focusing on God’s glory resonates with well-founded psychological insights into what shapes a life of meaning and virtue. Addressing Objections Allegation of Arrogance Some object that insisting on one’s own praise is arrogant. However, God’s emphasis on worship is not a demands-based tyranny but rather an invitation to live in accord with ultimate truth. Arrogance arises when a person undeservedly seizes honor. As the rightful source of all that is good, God claims no more than what belongs to Him. Misunderstanding the Nature of Divine Love Others suggest that calling for worship invalidates God’s love. Scripture, however, depicts God as the initiator of a redemptive story, culminating in the renewal of all creation (Revelation 21:1–5). The call to worship is also a chance to be transformed by the One who knows best how to reconcile hearts and restore the broken. Far from contradiction, God’s loving and glorifying purposes are intertwined. Historical and Archaeological Corroborations Confirmation of Biblical Events Archaeological sites, such as those identified in and around ancient Jericho or the region of the Hittites, provide tangential support for the historical framework of the Old Testament. These discoveries reinforce that Scripture’s claims are not mere mythology but rest in known historical and geographical settings. While they do not “prove” theological points outright, they strengthen the credibility of the text that presents God both as supremely exalted and intimately involved in human affairs. Resurrection as the Pinnacle The resurrection of Jesus is consistently affirmed even in extra-biblical sources referring to the movement of early believers (e.g., certain references in Tacitus and Josephus, though debated in part). The empty tomb and early Christian testimonies closely traceable to eyewitness accounts (1 Corinthians 15:6) emphasize that God’s ultimate self-revelation in Christ is both an event in history and a transformative truth. Rather than sheer self-promotion, God’s demonstration of power through Jesus’ resurrection reveals both His might and His loving purpose to redeem humanity. Conclusion God’s self-centeredness, if so called, does not mirror human pride or selfishness. Divine glorification remains inseparable from truth, love, and moral perfection. Scripture teaches that God is holy, righteous, and abounding in generosity—that His focus on His own glory is inherently right because it reflects reality and draws creation into the highest good. God’s redemptive actions, culminating in Jesus’ resurrection, further clarify that this pursuit of glory is simultaneously a pursuit of love for all who believe. Rather than an insecure demand for accolades, it is the rightful claim of the perfect Creator who gives life, sustains it, and redeems it. In this sense, the question “Is God inherently self-centered?” finds its answer in the biblical portrayal of a holy, just, and infinitely loving Being who invites us to share in His truth and life. “From Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.” (Romans 11:36) |
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